About Us

Town Twinning

The practice of Town Twinning started in the year 836. However, its growth occurred largely after the Second World War as a way of bringing European people into a closer understanding of each other and to promote cross-border projects of mutual benefit.
Since 1982, we have received a warm welcome on our regular visits to Cosne our twin town in France.


Our visits to Cosne are normally arranged every two years. The visiting Harpenden residents stay with French families for a weekend and experience their way of life. The last visit to Cosne was, before the Covid-19 pandemic, from 8th to 11th June 2018, and involved a guided visit to Moulins, a medieval city with a cathedral and many ancient buildings.

Just as Harpenden Friends visit Cosne, so the Cosne Friends visit Harpenden. The last such visit was in 2015.

Our Committee

Chairman: Gill Clark

Secretary: Kristina Lucas

Treasurer: John Drake

Other Members: Shona Shahryar, Jackie Andrews, Linda Frydd, Patrick Brosnan

Are you interested in joining the Friends of Cosne?